Sfairopoulos on the game vs. Efes: 'We play for us, not for others' / News - Basketnews.com

Ioannis Sfairopoulos, the head coach of Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade, made a firm stance about the season's last game against Anadolu Efes Istanbul, which has huge implications for the play-in.

Credit: Partizan Mozzart Bet/Dragana Stjepanovic Credit Partizan Mozzart Bet/Dragana Stjepanovic

As the last round of the EuroLeague regular season is before us, the post-season picture is still not entirely set, as the last play-in spot is still up for grabs.

Free throws this season

78%13,8Points made:13,8Accuracy:77,6%Place in standings:8Record max:24Record min:8Most made FTs:Milos TeodosicTeamEuroLeagueStatisticsSchedule

Out of many outcomes, for Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade and EA7 Emporio Armani Milan to have a chance to advance, Anadolu Efes Istanbul has to lose to Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade. The eventuality has caught the attention of many, such as Partizan president Ostoja Mijailovic.

In this context, Crvena Zvezda head coach Ioannis Sfairopoulos made remarks before the game, expressing a reaction to those who talked about the last round game against Efes.

"Look, for me, the most important thing is what we will do and how we will look. We play for us, not for others," said Sfairopoulos to Mozzart Sport. "We respect everyone, all opponents, but the game is important for us. We will fight for ourselves."

On Efes specifically, Sfairopoulos mentioned the Turkish team's recent streak and the fact that they have all their players available.

"The most important thing is to go out and fight with all our strength on both ends of the field, to be smart and follow the game plan. Efes has so many good individuals, they can attack you in many different ways, outside, inside..." the Greek tactician said.

"That's why we have to concentrate on every moment of the game to have an answer. We know that they are in a good moment and that they are on a winning streak, but we are going to fight," he stated.

On the issue of injured players, Sfairopoulos noted that Trey Thompkins will be available, Nikola Topic is out, and Stefan Lazarevic and Dejan Davidovac are questionable.

Crvena Zvezda was eliminated early this year, currently having an 11-22 record and sitting in the 16th spot.

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